Oilseed meals into foods: an approach for the valorization of oilseed by-products

Modulating the Structural, Thermal and Techno-Functional Properties of Sesame Protein Isolate Using Nonthermal Techniques

Sesame protein isolate is a promising sustainable plant-based protein due to its high nutritional value and unique flavor. However, due to several challenges related to its functional characteristics, sesame protein can only be used sparingly in food applications. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of nonthermal techniques including high-pressure homogenization (HPH, 100 MPa), high-intensity ultrasound (US, at a frequency of 20 kHz for 6 min), and high hydrostatic pressure (HHP, 400 MPa for 5 min) on the structure and functional properties of sesame protein isolate from sesame cake as a by-product. The results indicated that all nonthermal treatments encouraged the sesame protein insoluble suspension to change into a consistent protein dispersion, increasing the stability of the protein while reducing particle size (from 65.73 to 1.48 μm), increasing zeta potential (from -24.57 to -42.8 mV), and unfolding the molecular structure. All treatments led to an increase in β-sheets and reduced α-helix, and the most remarkable change in secondary structure occurred in the HPH treated sample that exhibited the highest UV absorbance. Minimal impact on the protein's thermal properties was monitored. Compared with the untreated sample, the techno-functional properties were significantly enhanced after modification, and the highest protein solubility (88.18%), EAI (62.09 m2/g), ESI (65.43 min), and OHC (1.89 g oil/g protein) obtained in the sample treated with HPH. Therefore, this work suggests that HPH could be a more promising technique than US and HHP to enhance the techno-functional properties of sesame protein isolate.

Development of Gluten-Free Cakes Using Protein Concentrate Obtained from Cold-Pressed Terebinth (Pistacia terebinthus L.) Oil By-Products

The present research aimed to incorporate terebinth seed protein into gluten-free cakes in order to increase their protein content and improve their technological properties. The terebinth protein replaced the rice flour-corn starch mixture used in control cakes at varying levels (3%, 6%, 9%, and 12%). The rheological properties of the cake batters were evaluated, along with the physicochemical attributes, textural properties, sensory attributes, and oxidative stability of the baked cakes. As the protein concentration increased, the consistency index of the cake batters also increased. All batters showed shear-thinning behavior, indicating pseudoplastic fluid behavior, and showed a viscoelastic nature reflected by the storage modulus (G') exceeding the loss modulus (G″). Both G' and G″ values increase with increasing protein content. The softest texture was observed in the control cake produced with wheat flour, followed by the cakes with 3% and 6% protein addition, while higher protein levels (9% and 12%) resulted in firmer cakes. Furthermore, oxidative stability improved with a higher level of protein. The addition of protein did not negatively affect sensory quality across all measured parameters. This study demonstrates the potential of terebinth protein to enhance the protein content and oxidative stability of gluten-free cakes that maintain their sensory attributes.

Innovative strategies for valorization of byproducts from soybean industry: A review on status, challenges, and sustainable approaches towards zero-waste processing systems

The agro-food supply chain generates significant quantities of waste and byproducts globally, influenced by regional socioeconomic conditions, policy frameworks, and environmental concerns. The soybean industry generates various byproducts during the production processes of oil, soy milk, tofu, soy yogurt, edamame, miso, tempeh, natto, and soy sauce, presenting both challenges and opportunities for sustainable valorization. The review aims to outline the composition, status, and potential applications of key byproducts within the soybean industry including soy okara, soy whey, soy hull, soy meal, and lecithin, elucidating innovative strategies for their comprehensive valorization. The goal is to establish a sustainable zero-waste processing system by effectively utilizing these byproducts. This review explores emerging biotechnological advancements and eco-friendly processes aimed at maximizing resource recovery through the valorization of these soy byproducts. Various commercially viable products derived from repurposing the carbohydrate and protein fractions of diverse soy byproducts are highlighted. Additionally, a cutting-edge framework is proposed, advocating for the establishment of a zero-waste system within the soybean processing sector, emphasizing integrated biorefinery technologies, circular economy strategies, and sustainability principles. The framework proposed encompasses maximizing okara utilization, extracting value-added products, and implementing a closed-loop byproduct management approach within collaborative supply chains. Despite promising prospects, challenges such as anti-nutrients, viscosity and solubility of soy powder, and environmental impact must be addressed. This study could inspire further research into innovative technologies for the comprehensive and integrated valorization of soy byproducts, aiming to mitigate food waste and enhance the sustainability of the soybean industry.

Comparative Analysis of Pretreatment Methods for Processing Bulk Flax and Hemp Oilseeds Under Uniaxial Compression

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of oven and vacuum pretreatment techniques at drying temperatures between 40 °C and 90 °C and a constant heating time of 60 min on the oil yield, energy output, and compressive stress of bulk flax and hemp oilseeds samples. The results showed that heating temperatures linearly increased the amounts of oil yield but did not correlate linearly with energy requirement. The oven pretreatment slightly increased the oil yield and energy compared to the vacuum pretreatment. Higher compressive stress values were observed for hemp oilseeds than flax oilseeds which could be attributed to the inherent structure of the oilseeds. Hemp oilseeds showed more toughness to compress than flax oilseeds which tend to have a softer texture. The lack-of-fit p-values > 0.05 of the linear regression models dependent on the heating temperature under both drying conditions indicate adequacy for predicting the calculated parameters. Tukey's significance test showed that the means of oil yield and energy of bulk flax and hemp oilseeds under the oven and vacuum pretreatments revealed no significant difference implying that both pretreatment methods can initiate the same heat treatment effect on oil extraction efficiency with the corresponding energy requirement.

Simple and Robust Approach for Determination of Total Protein Content in Plant Samples

The determination of total protein in plant samples is a difficult task, as classical nitrogen-based methods are not selective for the nature of nitrogen, and the results of biochemical methods are influenced by both associated compounds and the complex composition of the protein matrix. Using electrophoretic separation of three commercial sunflower protein samples, it was determined that the studied proteins are a mixture of salt-soluble globulins and water-soluble albumins of different molecular weights. The total protein content of the studied samples was determined using five spectrophotometric methods: direct spectrophotometry, bicinchoninic acid assay, and Benedict's, Bradford's, and Lowry's methods. After comparing the results obtained, it was concluded that, for the determination of protein in these plant materials, the use of the Dumas nitrogen-based method in tandem with Lowry's spectrophotometric method is the most suitable.

Valorization of Grain and Oil By-Products with Special Focus on Hemicellulose Modification

Hemicellulose is one of the most important natural polysaccharides in nature. Hemicellulose from different sources varies in chemical composition and structure, which in turn affects the modification effects and industrial applications. Grain and oil by-products (GOBPs) are important raw materials for hemicellulose. This article reviews the modification methods of hemicellulose in GOBPs. The effects of chemical and physical modification methods on the properties of GOBP hemicellulose biomaterials are evaluated. The potential applications of modified GOBP hemicellulose are discussed, including its use in film production, hydrogel formation, three-dimensional (3D) printing materials, and adsorbents for environmental remediation. The limitations and future recommendations are also proposed to provide theoretical foundations and technical support for the efficient utilization of these by-products.

Oilseed meal proteins: From novel extraction methods to nanocarriers of bioactive compounds

The global demand for animal proteins is predicted to increase twofold by 2050. This has led to growing environmental and health apprehensions, thereby prompting the appraisal of alternative protein sources. Oilseed meals present a promising alternative due to their abundance in global production and inherent dietary protein content. The alkaline extraction remains the preferred technique for protein extraction from oilseed meals in commercial processes. However, the combination of innovative techniques has proven to be more effective in the recovery and functional modification of oilseed meal proteins (OMPs), resulting in improved protein quality and reduced allergenicity and environmental hazards. This manuscript explores the extraction of valuable proteins from sustainable sources, specifically by-products from the oil processing industry, using emerging technologies. Chemical structure, nutritional value, and functional properties of the main OMPs are evaluated with a particular focus on their potential application as nanocarriers for bioactive compounds.

Recovery of Protein from Industrial Hemp Waste (Cannabis sativa, L.) Using High-Pressure Processing and Ultrasound Technologies

Hemp seeds are currently used mainly for oil extraction, generating waste that could be potentially exploited further as a source of proteins and other bioactives. This study aims to valorise hemp waste (Cannabis sativa, L.) from previous oil extraction as a source of protein by analysing the effect of high-pressure processing (HPP) pre-treatments (0-600 MPa; 4-8 min) combined with conventional or ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) methods on protein recovery/purity, amino acid composition, and protein structure. Overall, maximum protein recovery (≈62%) was achieved with HPP (200 MPa, 8 min) with UAE. The highest protein purity (≈76%) was achieved with HPP (200 MPa, 4 min) with UAE. Overall, UAE improved the extraction of all amino acids compared to conventional extraction independently of HPP pre-treatments. Arg/Lys ratios of the protein isolates ranged between 3.78 and 5.34, higher than other vegetable protein sources. SDS-PAGE did not show visible differences amongst the protein isolates. These results seem to indicate the advantages of the use of UAE for protein recovery in the food industry and the need for further studies to optimise HPP/UAE for an accurate estimation of processing costs and their effects on the composition and structure of proteins to contribute further to the circular economy.

Plant protein-based emulsions for the delivery of bioactive compounds

Emulsion-based delivery systems (EBDSs) can be used as effective carriers for bioactive compounds (bioactives). Recent studies have shown that plant proteins (PLPs) have the potential to be utilized as stabilizers of emulsions for loading, protection and delivery of bioactives. Different strategies combining physical, chemical and biological techniques can be applied for alteration of the structural characteristics and improving the emulsification and encapsulation performance of PLPs. The stability, release, and bioavailability of the encapsulated bioactives can be tailored via optimizing the processing conditions and formulation of the emulsions. This paper presents cutting-edge information on PLP-based emulsions carrying bioactives in terms of their preparation methods, physicochemical characteristics, stability, encapsulation efficiency and release behavior of bioactives. Strategies applied for improvement of emulsifying and encapsulation properties of PLPs used in EBDSs are also reviewed. Special emphasis is given to the use of PLP-carbohydrate complexes for stabilizing bioactive-loaded emulsions.

Valorization of wastes and by-products of nuts, seeds, cereals and legumes processing

Wastes and by-products of nuts, seeds, cereals and legumes carry a unique potential for valorization into value-added ingredients due to their protein, dietary fiber, antioxidant, vitamin and mineral contents. The most crucial factor in the recovery of value-added ingredients and bioactives from the wastes and by-products is the utilization of the most efficient extraction technique. This work is an overview of the classification of wastes and by-products of nuts, seeds, cereals and legumes processing, the methods used in the extraction of valuable compounds such as proteins, dietary fibers, phenolics, flavonoids and other bioactives. This chapter provides insights on the promising applications of extracted ingredients in various end products. A special emphasis is given to the challenges and improvement methods for extraction of value-added compounds from wastes and by-products of nuts, seeds, cereals and legumes processing.

Bioengineering to Accelerate Biodiesel Production for a Sustainable Biorefinery

Biodiesel is an alternative, carbon-neutral fuel compared to fossil-based diesel, which can reduce greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions. Biodiesel is a product of microorganisms, crop plants, and animal-based oil and has the potential to prosper as a sustainable and renewable energy source and tackle growing energy problems. Biodiesel has a similar composition and combustion properties to fossil diesel and thus can be directly used in internal combustion engines as an energy source at the commercial level. Since biodiesel produced using edible/non-edible crops raises concerns about food vs. fuel, high production cost, monocropping crisis, and unintended environmental effects, such as land utilization patterns, it is essential to explore new approaches, feedstock and technologies to advance the production of biodiesel and maintain its sustainability. Adopting bioengineering methods to produce biodiesel from various sources such as crop plants, yeast, algae, and plant-based waste is one of the recent technologies, which could act as a promising alternative for creating genuinely sustainable, technically feasible, and cost-competitive biodiesel. Advancements in genetic engineering have enhanced lipid production in cellulosic crops and it can be used for biodiesel generation. Bioengineering intervention to produce lipids/fat/oil (TGA) and further their chemical or enzymatic transesterification to accelerate biodiesel production has a great future. Additionally, the valorization of waste and adoption of the biorefinery concept for biodiesel production would make it eco-friendly, cost-effective, energy positive, sustainable and fit for commercialization. A life cycle assessment will not only provide a better understanding of the various approaches for biodiesel production and waste valorization in the biorefinery model to identify the best technique for the production of sustainable biodiesel, but also show a path to draw a new policy for the adoption and commercialization of biodiesel.

Milk Thistle Oilseed Cake Flour Fractions: A Source of Silymarin and Macronutrients for Gluten-Free Bread

The utilization of plant by-products as functional food ingredients has received increasing attention in the last decade. One such by-product generated during milk thistle oil pressing is oilseed cakes, which could be used as a novel food ingredient. Therefore, the study aimed at investigating the effects of the addition of milk thistle oilseed cake (MTOC) flour fractions obtained via dry sieving, differing in particle size (unsieved; coarse: >710 µm; medium: 315−710 µm; and fine: <315 µm), on the quality of gluten-free bread and stability of silymarin during breadmaking. The 10% addition of the fractions into gluten-free bread increased the protein, fibre, fat, ash and silymarin content. The breads with the coarse fraction had the highest content of fibre, whereas the breads with the fine fraction excelled in protein, fat and ash content. The medium fraction was characterized as the richest source of silymarin, whilst the fine fraction was the poorest. Silymarin constituents were slightly released during dough rising but also partially decomposed during baking; moreover, silydianin was the most susceptible and degraded the most. The enriched breads had better sensory and textural properties compared to the control bread. The results suggest that MTOC flour fractions can improve the potential health benefits and nutritional profile of gluten-free bread.

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.): A Comprehensive Review of Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Composition, Health Benefits, Development of Food, and Industrial Applications

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), of the Pedaliaceae family, is one of the first oil crops used in humans. It is widely grown and has a mellow flavor and high nutritional value, making it very popular in the diet. Sesame seeds are rich in protein and lipids and have many health benefits. A number of in vitro and in vivo studies and clinical trials have found sesame seeds to be rich in lignan-like active ingredients. They have antioxidant, cholesterol reduction, blood lipid regulation, liver and kidney protection, cardiovascular system protection, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and other effects, which have great benefits to human health. In addition, the aqueous extract of sesame has been shown to be safe for animals. As an important medicinal and edible homologous food, sesame is used in various aspects of daily life such as food, feed, and cosmetics. The health food applications of sesame are increasing. This paper reviews the progress of research on the nutritional value, chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and processing uses of sesame to support the further development of more functionalities of sesame.

Repurposing chia seed oil: A versatile novel functional food

Chia seed oil (CSO) has been recently gaining tremendous interest as a functional food. The oil is rich in with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially, alpha linolenic acid (ALA), linoleic acid (LA), tocopherols, phenolic acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. Extracting CSO through green technologies has been highly efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable, which has also shown to improve its nutritional potential and proved to be eco-friendly than any other traditional or conventional processes. Due to the presence of valuable bioactive metabolites, CSO is proving to be a revolutionary source for food, baking, dairy, pharmaceutical, livestock feed, and cosmetic industries. CSO has been reported to possess antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, insect-repellent, and skin-healing properties. However, studies on toxicological safety and commercial potency of CSO are limited and therefore the need of the hour is to focus on large-scale molecular mechanistic and clinical studies, which may throw light on the possible translational opportunities of CSO to be utilized to its complete potential. In this review, we have deliberated on the untapped therapeutical possibilities and novel findings about this functional food, its biochemical composition, extraction methods, nutritional profiling, oil stability, and nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications for its health benefits and ability to counter various diseases.

Novel Gluten-Free Bread with an Extract from Flaxseed By-Product: The Relationship between Water Replacement Level and Nutritional Value, Antioxidant Properties, and Sensory Quality

The food industry generates a great amount of food waste and by-products, which in many cases are not fully valorized. Press cakes, deriving from oilseeds extraction, represent interesting co-products due to their nutritional value, high biopolymers content, and the presence of bioactive phytochemicals. Gluten-free breads (GFBs) are products that have disadvantages such as unsatisfactory texture, low nutritional value, and short shelf life, so natural additives containing proteins and hydrocolloids are in demand to increase GFBs value. In this study, extract from flaxseed by-product (FOCE-Flaxseed Oil Cake Extract) was used to replace water (25-100%) in GFBs formulations and their nutritional value, antioxidant properties, and sensory features were investigated. The results showed that GFBs with FOCE had an elevated nutritional and nutraceutical profile (up to 60% more proteins, significantly increased K, Mg, and P levels). Moreover, the addition of FOCE improved the technological parameters (increased specific volume, number of cells and height/width ratio, reduced density, average size, and perimeter of cells), antioxidant potential, and overall sensory quality of GFBs. This study showed an encouraging way of using a by-product that, due to its high content of proteins, polysaccharides, minerals, and antioxidants, can add value to GFBs.